The New Orleans Hornets will not give up Lee Nailon without a fight. John Reid of the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that the Hornets have tendered a qualifying offer to Nailon, making him a restricted free agent.
As an ?early bird? free agent, the Hornets will be able to match any other team?s offer up to the $4.5 million mid class exception. "I think he'll love to stay here, but he's got to look out for his family and his career," Hornets coach Paul Silas said. "The dollars that he's going to get, who knows what that's going to be."
Nailon could not be reached for comment, but his agent Larry Fox said their intention, starting after June 30, is to speak to the Hornets and see what is beneficial for both sides.
"He would like to know how he fits into the team and how they plan to use him," Fox said. "We believe they are not far away from reaching the championship, and Lee respects the organization and likes the coaching staff."